Hey everyone! Let's dive into the iPad Pro M1 4th generation. When it was released, it was a total game-changer. But tech moves fast, and what was cutting-edge yesterday might be old news today. So, the big question is: does the iPad Pro M1 still hold up as a pro device in the current tech landscape? We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and display to its features and overall value, to help you decide if it's still worth considering in 2024.

Performance: Still a Speed Demon?

When the iPad Pro M1 hit the scene, it brought desktop-class performance to a tablet. The M1 chip was a massive leap forward, offering incredible speed and efficiency. Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how well it performs today. The M1 chip features an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, which means it can handle pretty much anything you throw at it. Whether you're editing 4K videos, creating complex digital art, or playing graphics-intensive games, the iPad Pro M1 doesn't break a sweat. This level of performance was unheard of in tablets before, and it's still impressive even by today's standards. One of the standout features of the M1 is its Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks. This makes a big difference in apps that use AI, such as those for photo and video editing. For example, tasks like object recognition and scene detection are noticeably faster on the M1 compared to previous iPad Pro models. In real-world use, this translates to smoother, more responsive performance across the board. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is seamless, and even the most demanding tasks are handled with ease. The iPad Pro M1 also benefits from Apple's Metal graphics technology, which optimizes the GPU for gaming and other graphically intensive applications. This results in stunning visuals and smooth frame rates, making it a great device for gaming and creative work. It's important to note that while newer iPads have moved on to the M2 and M3 chips, the M1 is still incredibly capable. The performance difference between the M1 and M2 in everyday use is often negligible, and the M3's advantages are mainly seen in specific, high-intensity tasks. For most users, the iPad Pro M1 offers more than enough power for their needs, making it a fantastic choice even in 2024.

Display: A Visual Treat

The display is another area where the iPad Pro M1 shines. It features a stunning Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz. This results in incredibly smooth scrolling, more responsive touch input, and a more immersive viewing experience. The display also boasts a wide color gamut, meaning it can reproduce a vast range of colors with exceptional accuracy. This is crucial for creative professionals who need to ensure their work looks its best. Whether you're editing photos, watching videos, or just browsing the web, the colors on the iPad Pro M1's display are vibrant and true to life. Another key feature of the display is its high brightness. It can reach up to 600 nits of brightness, making it easy to see even in bright outdoor conditions. This is particularly useful for photographers and videographers who often need to work on location. The iPad Pro M1 also supports True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the color temperature of the display to match the ambient lighting. This helps to reduce eye strain and makes the display more comfortable to use for extended periods. The display's resolution is also worth noting. The 12.9-inch model has a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, while the 11-inch model has a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels. Both offer a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch, which means that images and text look incredibly sharp and detailed. Compared to other tablets on the market, the iPad Pro M1's display is still among the best. While some newer models may offer slightly higher peak brightness or more advanced display technologies, the iPad Pro M1's display is more than capable of delivering a premium viewing experience. Whether you're a creative professional or simply someone who enjoys watching videos and browsing the web, you'll appreciate the quality and clarity of the iPad Pro M1's display.

Features: What Makes It Pro?

The iPad Pro M1 is packed with features that make it a truly pro device. Beyond the powerful M1 chip and stunning display, it offers a range of capabilities that cater to professionals and power users. Let's explore some of the key features that set it apart. One of the standout features is its support for the Apple Pencil. The second-generation Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly. It offers incredibly low latency, making it feel like you're writing on paper. This makes it a great tool for artists, designers, and anyone who takes handwritten notes. The iPad Pro M1 also supports the Magic Keyboard, which transforms the tablet into a laptop-like device. The Magic Keyboard features a full-size keyboard, a trackpad, and a floating design that allows you to adjust the viewing angle. It's a great accessory for anyone who needs to type a lot or wants a more traditional computing experience. Another important feature is the Thunderbolt/USB 4 port. This port offers incredibly fast data transfer speeds and allows you to connect to a wide range of peripherals, such as external displays, storage devices, and audio interfaces. This makes the iPad Pro M1 a versatile tool for creative professionals who need to work with large files or connect to specialized equipment. The iPad Pro M1 also features a * LiDAR scanner*, which measures the distance to objects in the environment. This enables augmented reality (AR) experiences and improves the accuracy of depth sensing in photos and videos. While AR may not be a primary use case for everyone, it opens up new possibilities for gaming, education, and other applications. In terms of software, the iPad Pro M1 runs on iPadOS, which is designed specifically for tablets. iPadOS offers a range of features that enhance productivity, such as multitasking, Split View, and Slide Over. It also supports widgets, which allow you to access information at a glance. The iPad Pro M1 also offers excellent battery life. It can last for up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on a single charge. This means you can work or play on the go without having to worry about running out of power. Compared to other tablets on the market, the iPad Pro M1 offers a unique combination of features that make it a powerful and versatile device. While some newer models may offer incremental improvements, the iPad Pro M1 remains a top contender for anyone who needs a tablet for professional work or creative pursuits.

Value: Is It Worth It in 2024?

So, let's talk about the big question: is the iPad Pro M1 worth buying in 2024? The answer, as with most tech purchases, depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a powerful tablet that can handle demanding tasks, the iPad Pro M1 is still an excellent choice. Its M1 chip offers plenty of performance for most users, and its stunning display, pro-level features, and excellent battery life make it a joy to use. However, it's important to consider the price. The iPad Pro M1 is not a cheap device, and newer models like the iPad Pro M2 and M3 offer incremental improvements in performance and features. If you're on a tight budget, you might be better off considering a refurbished iPad Pro M1 or a newer iPad Air. Another factor to consider is your use case. If you primarily use your tablet for basic tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and checking email, you probably don't need the power of the iPad Pro M1. A less expensive tablet like the iPad or iPad mini would likely suffice. However, if you're a creative professional who needs a tablet for tasks like photo and video editing, digital art, or music production, the iPad Pro M1 is a great investment. Its powerful processor, high-quality display, and support for the Apple Pencil make it a valuable tool for your workflow. It's also worth considering the ecosystem. If you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the iPad Pro M1 integrates seamlessly with your other devices. You can easily share files, sync data, and use features like Universal Control to work across multiple devices. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the iPad Pro M1 in 2024 comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you need a powerful and versatile tablet for professional work or creative pursuits, it's still a top contender. However, if you're on a tight budget or only need a tablet for basic tasks, you might be better off considering other options.

In conclusion, the iPad Pro M1 remains a formidable device in 2024. Its performance is still excellent, its display is stunning, and its features are top-notch. While newer models have been released, the iPad Pro M1 offers a fantastic balance of power, features, and value, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone in the market for a high-end tablet. Just weigh your needs and budget carefully to make the best decision for you. Cheers!